Letter: New library is good idea

Citizens in the service area of the Hudson Area Joint Library have a unique opportunity to seize the moment by voting “yes” in support of the Lakefront Library plan.

The need for an adequate library is not in doubt. In simple terms, the current library is about half of what is typical for the size of community it supports. Its current location is and always has been a makeshift solution, and attempting to expand in that building is a “good money after bad” proposition.

The NMC building is a remarkable structure in a remarkable location. Its potential not only a library but as a gathering point for the community is outstanding.

The building is downtown (a benefit to Second Street businesses) and comes with its own parking lot, which appears to be sizable. Even with retrofitting, its price is right, saving millions of dollars compared to new construction.

There is no downside to this plan, other than the increase in property taxes. But the community should see that the increase serves to bring a public service in line with its needs, much in the same way tax dollars are used to expand roads to meet traffic demand.

I have been impressed with the wide support I am hearing for the plan. As expected, the usual ranters are ranting and the habitual naysayers are saying nay. And once you cut through their tedious and predictable diatribes, even they don’t seem to have an actual objection.

I am excited that this opportunity exists. I hope the vote is not just positive, but overwhelmingly so.

Tags: opinion, hudson, lettertoeditor, library